All Belgian Kendo Federation 50th Anniversary Ceremony

On April 6, a ceremony for the 50th anniversary of the All Belgian Kendo Federation (ABKF) was held at the Palais des Academies in Brussels, and attended by Ambassador Hayashi. At the ceremony, 270 persons, including officials of the ABKF and Belgian practitioners of budo (Japanese traditional martial arts) such as kendo, iaido and jodo were present, as well as Japanese instructors who have been teaching budo in Belgium for many years.
During the ceremony, an explanation looking back on the ABKF’s 50 years history was held, followed by a welcome address by Minister for Sports of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation Mr. Madrane, who talked about encouraging people, especially the youth, to participate in sports, as well as the importance of mental improvement through budo. Ambassador Hayashi said in his welcome address that the “do” (way) in “budo” signifies the journey to self-discipline, and consequently, to harmony in society in general. Just now, with the approaching enthronement of His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince in less than 1 month, a new gengo (era name) for the reign of the new Emperor has been announced, namely “Reiwa”, meaning “Beautiful Harmony”. The Ambassador said he wishes that this may be a good occasion for the spirit of harmony to spread, through budo, from society to the world.
During the ceremony, commendations were given to those promoted to a higher rank as well as instructors, and Ambassador Hayashi also gave certificates to kendo instructors, praising their achievements.